Obituary of Kenneth Karl Nylund

Kenneth Karl Nylund of Spanaway, passed away peacefully March 16, 2022

He was born in Beverly, MA on March 10, 1937 to Priscilla Janvrin and Karl Nylund.  Both parents and his sister Judy precede him in death.  Kenneth is survived by his two sisters, Norma Lyon and Lois Armstrong.

Kenneth is also survived by his wife of 47 years, Nancy.  He was the proud father of 11 children: Rebecca (Bob) Guiley, Cynthia (Tony) Poland, Karalee Nylund, Greg (Chris) Wells, Jack Wells, Lori (Pat) Smith, Russ (Mary) Wells, Mary (Wayne) Desautel, Paul Wells, Annie (Justin) Rishel and Kathie (Doug) Thoma.  Although they were not all his biological children, they were the children of his heart.  These 11 children have blessed Kenneth with 44 grandchildren and 65 great-grandchildren.  If asked, it is certain that he would say these were the greatest gifts he has ever been given.

After graduating from high school in Newburyport, MA, Kenneth served in the United States Navy.  Kenneth was proud of his service and proud to be a veteran.  After his time in the Navy, Kenneth and a friend decided to head out to the west coast.  He loved it here in the Pacific Northwest and made it his home.

Kenneth loved the outdoors, often taking the family camping and hiking.  He also enjoyed bow hunting with his boys and the deer knew that they were safe.  He loved old cars and tinkering on the project truck in his garage with his son and grandsons.

Kenneth had many interests like cars and history.  He was fascinating to talk to and seemed to remember everything he had ever read.  When traveling with Kenneth, you were always sure to get a history lesson on the places you would visit.

Kenneth was an avid reader and loved to share his knowledge.  He especially loved talking about books over coffee with his girls.  This usually included some incredibly plain donuts unless someone brought him one of his favorite blueberry treats.

Kenneth was honored to be a member of the Knights of Columbus and Holy Disciples Church in Puyallup, WA where his life and faith will be celebrated with a funeral mass on Thursday, March 24, 2022 at 10:00 am presided over by Father Matthew O’Leary.